11/01

Yesterday afternoon I went out to lunch with Curtis Floyd (Director of Building & Grounds at MW) to talk to him about what steps we have taken to be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly at MW. It was a very enjoyable lunch and discussion (wish it was longer b/c we ran out of time). Through our discussion we talked about (in no particular order) a variety of topics. I know we just skimmed the surface of what our building has done but this is just a start for future conversations that I will continue w/ my students.

Washrooms have transitioned to electric dryers over cloth and paper towels.

Night lights have been changed over to CFLs.

Hallway lights have been placed on timers to go on and turn off five minutes before and after periods.

Light sensors have been installed in offices and washrooms.

Bus concourse lights have been changed over to CFLs.

Dim lighting system has been installed in the theatre.

Removal of fluorescent lights (about 50%)

About 50% of the ceiling lights in the Student cafeteria have been removed (no one even noticed!)

Through Interstate Battery Co. batteries are recycled (over 400 lbs of batteries last time around!).

Rechargeable batteries are purchased whenever possible.

Brass, Copper and aluminum are recycled.

As I’m writing this I keep thinking of a variety of other aspects we didn’t touch base on like all the trees we’ve planted on the campus and the new green house currently being built. Plus, to branch out from the Building and Grounds to all the teachers that carpool and/or take public transportation to school. Even to how teachers are becoming more and more paperless. It’s astonishing and amazing to think about all the positive changes that have been implemented over the years. I’m proud to be associated with MW!